Hydro-Québec and the Innu community of Ekuanitshit sign the Nashkuaikan agreement

Hydro-Québec and the Council of the Innu of Ekuanitshit today signed the Nashkuaikan agreement, whose aim is to address Ekuanitshit’s preoccupations regarding changes made to the Romaine hydro development project. This agreement also enhances certain aspects of the implementation of the Nishipiminan agreement, signed by the parties in 2009.

The Nashkuaikan agreement provides for the financing of structuring community initiatives over a 50-year period through the $57.6-million Nashkuaikan Fund.

It also includes measures regarding the negotiation and awarding of direct contracts with Ekuanitshit businesses. In addition, the agreement calls for activities designed to raise Hydro-Québec workers’ awareness of Innu culture and paves the way for the launch of discussions between Hydro-Québec and Ekuanitshit concerning the joint development of a pilot project to build energy-efficient buildings within the community.

Quotes:

“We’re very happy to consolidate our ties with the community of Ekuanitshit through this agreement, which provides for the implementation of new measures to support the Council in its economic and community development efforts. It also reinforces our recognition of Ekuanitshit as a partner and highlights the importance of ongoing dialogue with our Indigenous hosts and collaborators.”

Sophie Brochu, President and Chief Executive Officer, Hydro-Québec

“The Nashkuaikan agreement aims to pursue the Nishipiminan agreement in memory of Tshukumenu. Persevering like our Ancestors and always atuned to our environment, we have, through these agreements, seized real opportunities that will also benefit our future generations.”

Jean-Charles Piétacho, Chief, Ekuanitshit

“Our administration is pleased about the signing of this agreement, which strengthens ties between Ekuanitshit, Hydro-Québec and the Québec government. It will contribute to Ekuanitshit’s development while also helping to maintain harmonious relations.”

Ian Lafrenière, Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs

“This agreement is welcome news for several reasons: structuring projects will be initiated within the community, Ekuanitshit businesses will be able to negotiate direct contracts with Hydro-Québec, and workers from the community will have access to jobs. In other words, everyone will benefit, starting with the community of Ekuanitshit, as well as the Minganie and Côte-Nord region.”

Jonatan Julien, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources and Minister Responsible for
the Côte-Nord Region

Highlights

The Nashkuaikan agreement :

• creates the  $57.6-million Nashkuaikan Fund, which will be managed by the Council of the Innu of Ekuanitshit over a 50-year period for the benefit of the community and which will be allocated to structuring community projects;
• calls for the organization of activities designed to raise awareness of Innu culture by Hydro-Québec workers in the Minganie region;
• includes the possibility of awarding certain direct contracts to Innu businesses in Ekuanitshit in connection with the construction and operation of the Romaine complex;
• fosters sustainable ties and constructive dialogue between  Ekuanitshit and Hydro-Québec;
• paves the way for the launch of discussions between Hydro-Québec and Ekuanitshit concerning the joint development of a pilot project to build energy-efficient buildings within the community.